Healthy Neighbours: Colin's story

Our neighbourhood food networks support individuals to develop strategies to address long-term health issues.

Before Colin joined a bulk food program, he had serious health concerns. As a fixed income pensioner and self-described alcoholic, his blood sugar levels were borderline diabetic.

He became vegetarian and sought out vegetarian cooking tips after joining a recovery group, which led him to find his local neighbourhood food network, Grandview Woodland Food Connection.

After one year in the bulk food program, Colin began cooking and eating more vegetables. This change helped stabilize his health and drop his blood sugar levels to normal.

The large amount of fresh food from the bulk food program fills his fridge and Andrew needs to cook more often, something he enjoys learning as a new vegetarian.

His love of the program has encouraged him to give back by volunteering as a food sorter and driver. He is also now helping in the local school garden at Britannia, further connecting him to community.